Presented by Dr. Roland Abold, Managing Director, Infratest, Germany

Public awareness of certain societal issues often increases significantly during times of crisis but tends to fade quickly once the acute phase is over. During the pandemic, there were extensive discussions about the impact of lockdowns, school closures, and other social restrictions, particularly on younger people. To address these effects effectively and provide necessary support, public institutions and policymakers require robust data.

Longitudinal research and tracking offer powerful tools to monitor these issues from a long-term perspective. The COPSY study, conducted by the University Medical Center Hamburg-Eppendorf in collaboration with Infratest Dimap, examines the impact of the COVID-19 pandemic on the mental health of children, adolescents, and their parents in Germany. Initiated in May 2020, the study is ongoing, with the seventh wave completed at the end of 2024. It is set to continue into 2025.